1. Understand the Key Grammar Topics
The Structure and Written Expression section of the TOEFL ITP often covers specific grammar points, so focusing on these will maximize your study time:
Verb Tenses and Forms: You’ll encounter questions that test your knowledge of both common and less frequently used tenses, like the present perfect, past perfect, and future perfect. Know when to use each tense and understand subject-verb agreement in complex sentences.
Sentence Structure and Word Order: This includes identifying correct word order in simple and complex sentences. Pay close attention to sentences with clauses, such as relative clauses, conditionals, and subordinating conjunctions.
Modifiers: Adjectives, adverbs, and other modifiers can change the meaning of a sentence if misplaced. Practice identifying the correct placement of modifiers to avoid confusion in meaning.
Parallel Structure: Recognize how parts of a sentence should match in form and structure. For example, if one part of a sentence has an -ing form, parallel structures in the sentence often should as well.
Passive Voice: While active voice is often preferred, the passive voice is sometimes used for emphasis or when the focus should be on the action rather than the subject. Knowing when to use the passive voice and how to recognize it can help you identify correct answers on test day.
2. Analyze Sample Questions to Recognize Patterns
One of the best ways to understand the types of questions you’ll face on the TOEFL ITP is by practicing with sample questions. As you work through them, note common grammar structures and patterns that frequently appear. For example:
- Many questions present sentences with an error in verb tense, so you may need to identify the correct tense to fit the context.
- Some questions involve finding a misplaced modifier, so practice recognizing which words or phrases need to be repositioned.
By spotting these patterns, you’ll improve your ability to answer quickly and accurately on test day.
3. Practice Timed Exercises
The TOEFL ITP is a timed exam, so building your speed is essential. Practice working through grammar exercises and sample TOEFL structure questions within a set time limit. For example, try completing 10 to 15 questions in 10 minutes to simulate the actual exam environment. This will help you get used to the pressure of answering quickly without sacrificing accuracy.
4. Study Grammar Rules with a Focused Approach
Instead of trying to cover all grammar rules, concentrate on those that are likely to appear on the test:
- Subject-Verb Agreement: Ensure you understand how to identify the correct subject and verb forms, even in complex sentences with additional clauses.
- Comparatives and Superlatives: Questions may include comparisons that require the correct use of “more,” “less,” or “-er” forms. Study how comparatives and superlatives work, especially with irregular adjectives.
- Pronoun Agreement and Reference: Knowing when and how to use correct pronouns will improve your sentence clarity. Ensure pronouns agree with their antecedents in both number and gender.
Using grammar-focused study books or online resources specifically designed for TOEFL preparation can make your study sessions more effective.
5. Build Your Vocabulary and Sentence Variety
Sometimes, TOEFL ITP structure questions include less common vocabulary words. Expanding your vocabulary not only helps with reading comprehension but also improves your ability to understand complex sentence structures. Additionally, studying sentence patterns and varying your sentence structures will make it easier to spot errors in test questions.
6. Work with TOEFL ITP-Specific Study Resources
Use TOEFL ITP-specific materials, such as study guides and practice tests, since these resources are designed around the test’s unique structure. These materials provide a better understanding of how grammar questions are presented in the test, allowing you to familiarize yourself with real TOEFL ITP format questions.
7. Review Mistakes and Learn from Them
After practicing, spend time reviewing any questions you answered incorrectly. For each error, identify the specific rule or pattern that would have led you to the correct answer. This review process is essential because it helps you strengthen weak areas and recognize what types of mistakes to avoid.
8. Take Practice Tests to Track Your Progress
Taking full-length TOEFL ITP practice tests periodically allows you to measure your progress and adjust your study strategies. These practice tests help you gain familiarity with the exam’s timing and structure, which is especially useful as test day approaches.
To succeed in the TOEFL ITP Structure and Written Expression section, study English grammar in a targeted way. Focus on mastering the key grammar points that frequently appear on the test, practice regularly with sample questions, and learn from any mistakes you make along the way. With consistent practice and a strategic approach, you’ll improve your accuracy and gain confidence in identifying correct English structures.